6 Enduring TV Catchphrases From The 1960s

Television in the 1960s gave us more than just entertainment. It delivered unforgettable lines that became part of everyday conversation.

From sci-fi adventures to cop dramas, these catchphrases stuck around for decades, proving that great TV moments never really fade away.

1. Live Long And Prosper

Spock’s iconic Vulcan greeting became a symbol of friendship across galaxies. Leonard Nimoy created both the phrase and the hand gesture, inspired by his Jewish heritage.

Star Trek fans worldwide adopted this blessing as their own secret handshake. The split-finger salute might look easy, but try holding it for more than a minute! (Just saying, your hand will cramp.)

Even non-Trekkies recognize this phrase today.

2. Danger Will Robinson

When Robot B-9 sensed trouble, he frantically waved his accordion arms and shouted this warning. Lost in Space turned a mechanical character into everyone’s favorite protective friend.

The phrase became shorthand for any impending disaster, big or small. Forgot your homework? Danger, Will Robinson! Though the robot said many variations, this version stuck hardest in pop culture.

Parents still use it today.

3. Book Em Danno

Steve McGarrett wrapped up every Hawaii Five-O case with this no-nonsense command. Jack Lord delivered the line with such authority that criminals probably turned themselves in just hearing it.

Detective Danny Williams became forever linked to this catchphrase, even though he rarely got to say much in response. The show made Hawaii look like both paradise and crime central simultaneously.

Police dramas everywhere borrowed this energy.

4. You Rang

Lurch’s deep, monotone response became comedy gold on The Addams Family. Ted Cassidy’s towering presence and zombie-like delivery made two simple words absolutely hilarious.

Whenever someone pulled the mansion’s chain bell, Lurch appeared like magic. His deadpan timing turned a basic butler duty into appointment television. Kids loved imitating his gravelly voice at sleepovers, driving parents slightly bonkers.

Pure spooky perfection every single time.

5. And Now For Something Completely Different

John Cleese announced this transition between bizarre sketches on Monty Python’s Flying Circus. British comedy would never be the same after Python landed in 1969.

The phrase warned viewers that logic was about to take a holiday. Expect the Spanish Inquisition? Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition! Python’s absurdist humor influenced generations of comedians worldwide. The line became code for any sudden topic change in conversation or presentations everywhere.

Revolutionary silly brilliance achieved.

6. And Thats The Way It Is

Walter Cronkite closed the CBS Evening News with this reassuring sign-off. America trusted Uncle Walter to deliver truth during turbulent times like Vietnam and civil rights struggles.

His authoritative voice made facts feel solid and reliable. When Cronkite said that’s the way it is, millions believed him without question. Journalism had a different weight back then, before cable news and social media fractured everything.

The most trusted voice in America.